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What is hepatitis?
A healthy liver helps fight infections, stops bleeding, processes medications and removes toxins from the body. Hepatitis is a disease that causes your liver to swell and become inflamed. Common causes of hepatitis include some viruses that can damage liver cells, causing scar tissue to form and to prevent those cells from functioning. Depending on the type of hepatitis infection, the disease can be mild, constant or deadly. Hepatitis affects millions of Americans.
Be aware that herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not assume if a product is considered "natural" that it is harmless. Many substances do not have sound science behind them to prove their safety or how well they work. Manufacturers may not be giving you what you think you are getting, or the way the substance is processed may be unhealthy or unsafe.
With many of these products, doctors do not know enough about them. Herbs and supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications or can worsen your health conditions. Consider that some supplements, such as vitamin A, may be unsafe when taken in mega doses.
It is strongly advised that you talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. If you are taking an herb or supplement and notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the substance immediately and talk to your doctor.
| Herb |
Claim |
Possible Interactions and Dangers |
What the experts say |
| Milk thistle |
Treats liver disorders. |
Be careful if you have an allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family, which include ragweed and daisies, artichoke, common thistle or kiwi. Also, persons with diabetes should avoid milk thistle. May interact with medications to control blood sugar. Possible side effects are stomach upset. Rare reports of rashes, headaches, heartburn and joint pain. |
Small studies suggest chronic hepatitis caused by viruses or alcohol is improved by taking milk thistle. However, more extensive research is needed. Do not take this. |
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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